By the Founders: Dr. Rotimi Mathew & Tpl (Dr.) Omolara Esther Mathew

The establishment of the Institute of Africa Life Coaches and Mentors (IALCM) was driven by a profound and shared desire to transform lives, advance human capital development, and instill professionalism in the field of coaching and mentorship across Africa. The vision and ambition behind the creation of IALCM emanate from the personal and professional experiences of its founders, Dr. Rotimi Mathew and Tpl (Dr.) Omolara Esther Mathew, who both recognize the pivotal role that skilled, ethical, and visionary leaders can play in the growth and development of individuals, communities, and nations.

The founders have long held the belief that Africa’s future rests in the hands of its people—not only through its natural resources or economic growth but through the empowerment and development of its most valuable asset: its people. Their journey to creating IALCM was inspired by the necessity to develop world-class leaders who are equipped to navigate the unique challenges Africa faces, as well as to harness the untapped potential within its vast and diverse population.

The Vision: A Bias for Africa in Human Capital Development

At the heart of the IALCM philosophy is a bias for Africa’s growth through its people. The founders recognized that for Africa to lead in the global economy and impact future generations, the nurturing of its human capital—its leaders, professionals, coaches, and mentors—must be a priority.

Their vision for IALCM is deeply rooted in the belief that Africa must lead the world in coaching and mentoring. The global coaching industry is expanding, yet African voices and approaches remain underrepresented in many areas. IALCM was created to change that narrative, ensuring that Africa’s unique cultures, wisdom, values, and methodologies are integrated into globally recognized coaching and mentoring practices.

Dr. Mathew and Tpl. (Dr.) Omolara Esther Mathew understand that the success of any society lies in empowering individuals with the tools and skills to thrive, especially in leadership, entrepreneurship, personal growth, and community development. They realized that the coaching industry, when professionalized and systematized in Africa, would build sustainable leaders who are not only successful personally but who also create ripple effects of transformation across the continent.

The Desire for Professionalism in Coaching and Mentorship

A critical aspect of the founders’ philosophy is their deep desire for professionalism in the coaching and mentorship industry. They have both seen first-hand how Africa’s growth has been hampered, not by lack of talent or resources, but by the lack of structured and professional development frameworks in crucial fields, particularly coaching and mentorship. Too often, people in positions of influence and leadership have been underprepared or ill-equipped, which in turn affects their ability to guide and mentor others effectively.

Dr. Rotimi and Tpl. (Dr.) Omolara Esther Mathew were driven by the urgent need to professionalize coaching and mentoring in Africa, ensuring that those who enter these fields are qualified, competent, and ethical. By establishing IALCM, the founders sought to create an institute that would not only train but certify life coaches and mentors who possess the high standards of professionalism required for long-lasting, impactful work in any sector—whether in business, education, family, healthcare, or personal development.